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How intensive is the study towards becoming a Social Worker or CYW in the education industry?

I was just curious as one of my options were to go into social work. I found social work to be an opportunity to help children in today's society, especially with the amount of mental health issues rising. I know that social work requires a lot of placement in order to gain experience. I believe that social work is based on many interpersonal skills, but how much schooling is needed? Is this a job that will rise in the industry as we grow as society? #education #social-work

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Erica’s Answer

Hi,
I noticed you are in Canada and I am not certain what most geographical areas require in Canada, but in the U.S. in doing my own research, I learned that to truly be called a Social worker you must earn an MSW (Master of Social Work). There are BSW programs which may allow you to study social work at the undergraduate level. You could probably even get into certain types of case management and helping people, but to earn a license (LCSW), you must earn an MSW and for the licensing part, take a state test.


If anyone out here has a different answer, please advise.


Best of wishes!
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Katie’s Answer

Hi! I'd like to add to Erica's answer. I attended a 4 year university (in the United States). I have a BSW (Bachelor's of Social Work) and have worked in or adjacent to the field for the last 10 years. That said, I currently work at a for-profit company doing philanthropy and community work with local nonprofits, so I'm not a Social Worker or directly in the field at present. When working in the field with a BSW, I was able to get part-time or entry level positions at nonprofits and government agencies. This was when I had little to no experience. You can get licensed as an LCSW if you have at least two years of supervised experience in the field or if you go on to get your Master's Degree. If you want to do private counseling or therapy, you'd likely do that as an LCSW. But there are also many more career paths you can take with a social work degree. I think the field of Social Work is worth pursuing if you feel passionate about it, whether or not you go on to get licensed or get a Masters or even become a social worker. For me, it provided invaluable experience for my current career and my life. I also know of several people in the nonprofit field who do great work for their communities who don't have Social Work degrees and may have other degrees or some without college degrees at all. The world of nonprofits needs all kinds of people with all kinds of skills and educations. The other thing to think about, as with many careers, is the higher level of education you attain, the more money you can make. Hopefully this helps! Best of luck to you!
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